Shah Ahmed Shafi, the former head of the hardliner outfit Hefazat-e-Islam, had warned about the current alarming situation of Qawmi madrasas, says his son Anas Madani.
“My father pointed to the way of overcoming this problem. He also warned the government several times,” he said on Thursday during a discussion at the National Press Club in Dhaka.
Madani said Ahmad Shafi had taken bold steps even in his old age, being at the forefront of various movements, including realization of religious rights, improvement and recognition of the Qawmi madrasa education system.
He had no animosity towards the government but rather advised it on different issues.
Owing to his moderation, the government also had accepted some of his demands, such as recognition of the Qawmi madrasas.
“We have to find a way out of the ongoing crisis by following the path shown by him,” he added.